STA is no exception. Earth science has been the subject of increased emphasis and such activities as observation, monitoring, research, are being vigorously promoted. A few examples: research vessels "Kaiyo" of Japan Marine Science and Technology Center(JAMSTEC) has been extensively used for observation cruises in the western Pacific. JAMSTEC is also developing advanced Pacific Ocean buoy network of the main themes of the workshop, and a large oceanographic research vessel "Mirai" to enhance its capability for ocean science.
In addition, Advanced Earth Observation Satellites (ADEOS and ADEOS-JI) and a satellite for tropical rainfall measuring mission(TRMM) are being developed by National Space Development Agency of Japan(NASDA) for improved Earth observation from space.
Several important on-going projects seek to understand the variability and predictability of Asia monsoons, El Nino Southern Oscillation, and the effect of clouds on global warming. The National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention(NIED) and JAMSTEC actively participate in these studies together with many other institutes. The development of geoscience information global exchange systems like the Global Observation Information Network(GOIN), an initiative started in cooperation with the United States is another area of emphasis in STNs geoscience policy.
In the past, most research activities have been conducted by individual areas in oceanography, atmospheric science and solid earth science alike, Using this approach, individual studies have indeed made progress. However, it is clear that, unless we fully understand the complicated interaction between individual studies; much less develop forecasting capability. Therefore, it is important for us to promote a new type of research projects which deals with the earth as one total system, in addition to promoting research based on individual research fields. as I mentioned earlier, our modern society is faced with many global environmental problems which require social solutions. Thus, we must set clearly defined goals for Earth science and technology based on scientific and social needs. Each implementing step need's to be described, too, to make sure their altimate goals are achieved. We will also need an effective organization to oversee, evaluate, and support the project activity, and observation and research bases for promoting international cooperation.
From this viewpoint, in the Councils for Aeronautics, Electronics and Other Advanced Technologies which is responsive to the Minister of State for Science and Technology, we are currently examining the establishment of broad research and development programs for Earth science and technology. Implementation of these programs will require not only mobilization of all sources of Japanese related organizations, but also international cooperation. More specific description of what we have in mind are follows.
(1)To contribute to stabilizing the socio-economic condition of the Asia and
